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A major incident has been declared after huge fire broke out at a city retail park and warehouse in west London.
Thick plumes of smoke can be seen for miles as fire crews work to tackle the blaze on Bridge Road in Southall.
Firefighters from Southall, Heston and Ealing responded to the blaze just before 9am this morning, after receiving 50 calls.
London Fire Brigade (LFB) has said 25 fire engines and 150 firefighters are currently responding to the fire.
Due to the suspected presence of fireworks and cylinders within one of the structures involved, LFB has declared a major incident.
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The fire broke out in a two storey building consisting of a warehouse and a retail space, with about three-quarters of the structure currently alight, according to LFB.
Pictures from the scene show a thick plume of smoke rising above the skyline. However, the cause of the fire is still unknown.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, the Brigade’s Incident Commander said: “A major incident has been declared as firefighters tackle the fire on Bridge Street, Southall. This decision has been taken due to the suspected presence of fireworks and cylinders being stored within the structure. All firefighters have withdrawn to a safe distance and are now fighting the fire from a greater distance to ensure crew safety.
“Firefighters are working hard to bring this fire safely under control. The incident involves a mixed retail and warehouse space, with a significant part of the structure currently alight. Due to the complex nature of the site, and the size of the fire, this will be a protracted incident with crews continuing out firefighting operations through the day.
“The fire is producing a large amount of smoke, with the plume visible across West London. Residents in the immediate area are advised to keep doors and windows closed as crews respond. Traffic in the local area will be heavily impacted, and people should avoid the area if possible.”
Residents in the local area have been advised to keep door and windows closed due to large amounts of smoke and traffic in the area will also be impacted as crews respond.
“The Brigade’s Control Officers have taken over 50 calls reporting the fire, with the first received at 0855. Crews from Southall, Heston, Ealing and surrounding fire stations have been sent to the scene,” the LFB said.
